Appointment Setter Jobs for Backpackers

Appointment Setter Jobs in Australia

What is an appointment setter?

An appointment setter is a support role that performs sales and marketing services via cold calling (calling a list of prospective customers without prior introduction). This role creates interest in products or services and is the first step of the marketing journey.

The purpose of the appointment setter is to call customers and arrange a call for sales professionals, who will then convert the appointment into a sale. The product that the appointment setter is 'selling' is to get the customer to agree to an appointment with the salesperson, or to accept delivery of sample products or services. The appointment setter introduces the products or services to a new audience.

What qualities should a good appointment setter have?

While telemarketing skills are a useful part of the role, appointment setters also require a friendly phone manner, perseverance and resilience. These are all skills that can be learned and developed.

The level of support for learning the role varies by company. Some will have a script ready for you and are willing to help you through the learning process, perhaps by listening to other calls. Some employers will expect you to hit the ground running with your own elevator pitch for the product. During the interview process, the company will explain what is required and how they will assist you to fit in. If the company doesn’t raise this, ask questions during the interview to determine whether the level of support is a good fit for your skills.

Sales skills are important. A successful appointment setter handles sales objections easily and knows their product well. Having a good understanding of the value that the product adds is essential for selling convincingly and being able to hit the right note with potential customers.

It is also important to exercise many soft skills in this role, such as active listening and building rapport. A good appointment setter makes it impossible for the customer to put down the phone and carefully tailors each call to their audience.

Remaining upbeat and positive is an essential skill as an appointment setter and requires the ability to make each call with a similar level of enthusiasm as if it’s the first call you’ve made today!

There is a need for some admin work in record keeping the number of appointments, dispatching orders or requests and following up to ensure that all orders are met. To be successful in the role, attention to paperwork and being organised is an often-overlooked requirement. While phone and sales skills are important, keeping careful records and following through with promises made will ensure your hard work is rewarded.

How much does an appointment setter earn?

Appointment setters can earn between $55k to $70k depending on the state.

Do appointment setters earn commission in Australia?

Because the role is based around sales, there is usually a sales commission component to wages. Appointment setters often receive a base hourly rate, plus a commission incentive based on sales made. This may be paid per appointment made or it may be based on actual sales resulting from appointments. It is important to understand the actual structure of sales and commissions prior to accepting a role, to ensure that you have a clear understanding of your objectives and how you will be compensated. This will prevent any misunderstanding or disappointment later.

It is also important to understand how your expenses will be managed and what allowances are provided for working from home if this is where you will be based. While some work-related expenses can be claimed back on your tax return, there may be upfront costs such as internet and phone that you are expected to cover.

Where can I get a job as an appointment setter?

There is a need for appointment setters in every state and working from home is frequently allowed. Many companies will require onsite training prior to commencing the role and may require you to be present in the office from time to time. The bonus of working in an office is that many people working from home find the role can be lonely. A shared office space increases a sense of social belonging – other Appointment Setters can provide tips and feedback and share their experiences. Offices can be found in many places, but larger companies are often located in commercial and industrial areas. The benefit of these larger offices is that public transport is freely available.